Effectiveness of a 12-month diabetes prevention program in reducing cardiovascular disease risk in prediabetics

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between obesity and cardiovascular biomarkers in physically active prediabetic participants who completed 12 months of the DPP. The obesity paradox was also studied, which suggests that obese and overweight individuals may have a protective survival benefit when compared to normal weight individuals. Subjects (N=20) ranged from 50-83 years of age and were participating in a structured exercise program at least 2-3 days/week. Cardiovascular risk factors including BMI, HbA1C, weight, WC, SBP, DBP, cfPWV, MVC, GS, and OLBT were examined at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. The CDC-approved curriculum included education of healthy eating habits and the importance of achieving a minimum of 150 minutes of weekly physical activity. Significant improvements were observed in BMI, weight, and WC from pre-to-post. Criteria for classification of the obesity paradox was also studied to determine if the paradox was present in our sample. The obese group experienced greater improvements in WC, SBP, DBP, cfPWV, and GS when compared to overweight or normal weight individuals, but the results explaining the obesity paradox were inconclusive.